- Ghana hosts inter-school debate in Accra.
- Six senior high schools in Accra participated
- Sensitization workshops are already underway in several regions.
To mark the 49th anniversary of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration partnered with Media Response, an NGO, to host an inter-school debate in Accra.
Sparking Dialogue Among the Youth
The debate aimed to engage young minds in a meaningful discussion about West Africa’s future and ECOWAS’ role in fostering regional peace, stability, and economic growth. It also served as an opportunity to strengthen the understanding of regional integration, particularly among the youth.
Schools Debate the Role of ECOWAS
Six senior high schools in Accra participated, paired to argue for or against three motions related to the anniversary theme: “Enhancing Regional Unity, Peace and Security.”
ECOWAS Representative Sees Hope in Young Minds
Resident Representative of ECOWAS to Ghana, Ambassador Baba Gana Wakil, highlighted the debate’s significance in shaping ECOWAS’ future through young people. He emphasized the importance of ECOWAS and urged students to take an active interest in its activities.
Equipping the Next Generation
The Ministry’s Chief Director, Ambassador Ramses Cleland, stressed the discussions’ importance in recommitting to a more unified, peaceful, and secure West Africa. He expressed hope that the acquired knowledge would inspire students to strive for success and contribute to a better ECOWAS region.
Accra Girls Takes First Place
Accra Girls Senior High School emerged victorious, followed by Nungua Senior High School and Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School. All participating schools received prizes and certificates.
Raising Awareness of ECOWAS Rights
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, announced plans to further educate the youth about their rights and privileges under ECOWAS policies and protocols. Sensitization workshops are already underway in several regions.
Mr. Ampratwum-Sarpong emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to raising awareness about ECOWAS’ relevance in today’s complex world. He encouraged the youth to be confident and contribute to a better future for the region.
This event served as a springboard for Ghanaian youth to engage with the critical role ECOWAS plays in West Africa’s future. By empowering young minds, the hope is to ensure a more peaceful, unified, and prosperous region.
